Starting A New Project? Know Building Codes

November 30, 1996|By Reader'S Digest Books

Before you even think about picking up a hammer to make a change to your house, make sure you know the requirements of your local building code.

Building codes are detailed regulations covering all aspects of building construction, including alteration, repair, use, occupancy and maintenance. They ensure that all buildings meet minimum standards for health and safety.

Most communities adopt, in whole or in part, one of the comprehensive model codes developed by builders, architects and building officials throughout the country. But communities can make any changes they want in these codes.

The codes deal with building design, the quality and strength of materials, and building techniques. They also cover electrical wiring and equipment, plumbing fixtures and sewage systems, furnaces, chimneys, air vents, cooling devices, fireplaces, large appliances and so on.

Codes are enforced by a local building official. That person has a copy of the local code that you can see. (Codes sometimes can be found at the public library as well).

Building codes were designed to prevent unscrupulous builders from constructing unsafe buildings. The original regulations were specification codes, dictating that construction proceed in a certain way using specified materials.

Specification codes largely have given way to performance codes. These establish certain strength and safety standards for construction. They allow the use of various materials and techniques provided the standards are met.

Codes are not intended to forbid the use of alternate materials and techniques. The building official is usually empowered to approve designs, materials and techniques not specified in the code if the official determines that they meet the safety performance standards of the code.

The official can allow deviations if standard practice causes you unusual inconvenience or hardship. The official also can advise you if there are historical restrictions that may apply.

Before you start work, apply to the building official for a work permit. Ask then what will be required in terms of detailed drawings of the project and materials and techniques you will employ. For major work, certification by an architect can be required.

Permits generally are not required for minor repairs or alterations. A permit may not be required if there is no cutting away of a wall, removal or cutting of structural support, or alteration or replacement of plumbing, gas or electrical systems. When in doubt, ask.

After you have the permit, arrange for the building official to inspect the work in progress as required by the code. Never proceed until the necessary inspection is made. The building inspector can force you to tear down anything that obstructs the view of whatever must be inspected.

Because your building official may have a limited inspection schedule, set up an appointment well in advance of a necessary inspection and coordinate schedules to avoid costly delays with subcontractors.

It is vital that you obey the building official. You are guilty of a separate offense, a misdemeanor, each day your work violates the code. You could be fined, and the building official could force you to stop work and prevent you from occupying whatever you are building.

After the final inspection, when all construction is completed to the official's satisfaction, the building official will issue a certificate of occupancy. This will allow you legally to occupy what you have constructed.